Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: DIPHENHYDRAMINE - INJECTION (dye-fen-HI-druh-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): Benadryl

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication provides relief of symptoms of allergic reactions such as rash, hives, watery eyes, runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. Also used to treat motion sickness, anxiety, tension, sleeplessness or involuntary movements due to the side effects of certain psychiatric drugs.

HOW TO USE: This medication is injected into a vein or into a muscle. Be sure you learn the proper technique of injecting this drug and of proper disposal procedures. Follow doctor's directions carefully. Do not use more often than prescribed.

SIDE EFFECTS: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, vision changes, irritability and dry mouth and nose. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: breathing difficulties, heart pounding or irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, difficulty urinating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, lung disease, asthma, glaucoma, ulcers, enlarged prostate, drug allergies. May cause dizziness especially when rising quickly from a seated or lying position. Change positions slowly and be careful on stairs. May cause drowsiness. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness. Avoid the use of alcohol or other sedating type medications to avoid excessive drowsiness. Do not take for several days before allergy testing. Test results can be affected. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk and either the drug or breast-feeding must be discontinued. Consult your doctor.